Lucas - I'm no Alonso

15 September 2009 04:32

Liverpool midfielder Lucas does not think he should be compared to former Anfield ace Xabi Alonso.
The 22-year-old was recruited by Rafa Benitez from Brazilian side Gremio in 2007 but was not employed as a regular starter in his first two seasons with the club.
However, after Alonso left for Real Madrid over the summer, Lucas has been given the responsibility of filling the hole in central midfield left by the Spaniard.
Despite being viewed as a direct replacement for Alonso, he has stated that his game is very different from his predecessor's.
"I knew when Xabi left that people would compare (us) but anyone who knows football knows I am not the same player as Xabi," Lucas said.
Lucas believes he has a more attacking mentality than the influential Alonso, who would often anchor the midfield and use an array of passes to create attacks.
He added: "I try to play more forward and Xabi is a good passer.
"Of course, we miss him (Alonso) but now he is at Real Madrid and we hope he will do well there. We have to now think about our squad."